Stain adds colors, brings out best of wood’s character

“Staining adds color and character to wood by bringing out its natural beauty, and you don’t even need to be an accomplished do-it-yourselfer to do a great job,” says Rich Morrell, brand manager for Cabot Stains.

“Used properly, stains accentuate wood, enhance the grain pattern, change its appearance or even make it look like another type of wood to emphasize the finer points in furniture, cabinets, moldings or other wood around your home,” Morrell points out.

Accent staining, in particular, is a good technique to use when you want to draw attention to the unique details of furniture or to highlight the variety of wood species used on a particular project.

To help you get started on your wood staining project, Morrell and the experts at Cabot Stains are offering these helpful tips:

* When applying an accent stain, try using a soft, lint-free cloth for maximum control in spreading the stain color onto the wood. Begin by dipping the cloth into the stain and then apply the stain to the wood using a circular motion.

* Finish by wiping the area with a clean cloth to get rid of excess and be sure to wipe in the direction of the wood grain. After you wipe, if the piece of furniture doesn’t look dark enough to your liking, apply more stain, but be sure to wipe again when done.

* Choosing a color can be a daunting task but can be equally rewarding. From the rich warmth of wood tones, to the nature-inspired blue and green stains, and even the popular and vibrant reds, the color possibilities are endless.

* By combining traditional stain choices with exciting new accent colors, you can transform your woodworking project into a one-of-a-kind treasure.

* For a truly unique accent look, try blending colors together to create your own special finish. Experiment with various colors and mixes, and be sure to test the color on a sample piece of wood before you begin.

“When staining your own furniture you should make sure to choose a high-quality stain that will penetrate the wood evenly and ensure professional quality results. We developed Cabot Interior Wood Stains by blending the finest grade oils, resins and pigments to always offer a consistent appearance and superior depth of color that’s easy to apply and control,” Morrell said.

For additional advice about how to stain, as well as how to prepare and choose a color for your furniture, visit the company’s Web site at www.cabotstain.com.

Information courtesy StatePoint Media